Quick Answer: Compared To vs. Compared With
Both phrases are gramatically valid, but they traditionally serve different functions. Use Compared To when you are claiming that two things are similar (likening them). Use Compared With when you are examining two things side-by-side to highlight their differences or similarities (contrasting them). In modern, casual English, they are often used interchangeably, with “Compared To” becoming the dominant choice for all situations.
He compared her eyes to the stars.
Table of Contents
The Core Difference: Similarity vs. Analysis
The confusion between compared to and compared with is one of the most enduring debates in English grammar. While many native speakers use them interchangeably today, traditional style guides maintain a specific distinction based on intent. The choice depends on whether you are being poetic or analytical.
Key Takeaway: Think of “To” as pointing at a resemblance (A is like B). Think of “With” as placing items side-by-side on a table (Let’s check A against B).
When to Use “Compared To”
You should select compared to when you want to assert that two things are alike. This is often found in literary contexts, metaphors, or similes where the speaker asserts a fundamental similarity between objects that might be essentially different.
When you compare something to something else, you are focusing on the resemblance. You are essentially saying “X is like Y.”
- Poetic usage: “Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?” (Shakespeare uses this to say the person is like the day).
- Simplification: “The human heart is often compared to a pump.” (Focusing on the functional similarity).
- Metaphorical assertions: “The noise was compared to thunder.”
When to Use “Compared With”
The phrase compared with is the standard choice for formal analysis, statistics, and objective reporting. It implies a juxtaposition where you examine two or more items to weigh their differences and similarities equally.
If you are writing a financial report, a scientific paper, or a news article involving data, compared with implies a rigorous look at the details.
- Statistical analysis: “This year’s earnings were low compared with the 2023 fiscal results.”
- Physical differences: “Compared with a standard laptop, the tablet is much lighter.”
- Juxtaposition: “London is quite rainy compared with Rome.”
Modern Usage and Style Guides
Language evolves, and strict adherence to the “to vs. with” rule is fading. In contemporary English, especially in American English, compared to covers both meanings comfortably. While “compared with” retains a tone of formality, you will rarely be “corrected” for using “compared to” in a statistical context today.
What the Authorities Say
The Chicago Manual of Style and the AP Stylebook generally acknowledge the traditional distinction but note that “compared to” is acceptable in most contexts. However, strict grammarians still prefer compared with when emphasizing contrast.Source-1✅
At A Glance: Which One To Choose?
| Context | Preferred Phrase | Meaning Implied |
|---|---|---|
| Metaphors / Similes | Compared To | Likening (A is similar to B) |
| Statistics / Data | Compared With | Examining differences/details |
| Casual Conversation | Compared To | General comparison |
| Formal Academic Writing | Compared With | rigorous analysis |
Real-World Examples
To master the usage, looking at examples in context helps clarify the intent behind the preposition choice.
- Correct Usage of “Compared To”
- The writer compared the politician to a wolf in sheep’s clothing. (Asserting a similarity in character).
- Her singing voice was compared to a nightingale. (Focus on beauty/likeness).
- Correct Usage of “Compared With”
- Compared with the previous model, the new car has better mileage. (Noting the specific technical difference).
- We compared his statement with the police report and found inconsistencies. (Analyzing for truth/detail).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it grammatically wrong to say “compared to” for differences?
Technically, no. In modern English, “compared to” is widely accepted for both similarities and differences. However, in very formal or academic writing, sticking to the traditional distinction (using “compared with” for differences) is safer and shows attention to detail.
Which phrase is more common in the US vs UK?
In American English, “compared to” is significantly more common for all uses. In British English, the distinction is slightly better preserved, but “compared to” is still very popular.
Can I use “as compared to”?
Yes, “as compared to” (or “as compared with”) is a valid phrase often used to introduce a contrasting clause. For example: “Sales were high, as compared to last month.” It functions similarly to the standard phrases but can improve flow in longer sentences.
Does pronunciation change the meaning?
No, pronunciation does not affect the meaning. “Compared” is pronounced /kəmˈpɛərd/. The choice between “to” (/tuː/) and “with” (/wɪð/) is purely semantic and grammatical.